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Drought Strains Water Supply in Hua Hin, Conservation Measures Introduced Picture for reference only. Courtesy of Vecteezy Hua Hin Municipality is grappling with severe water scarcity due to ongoing drought conditions. The dry spell has considerably depleted water resources for both municipal and agricultural usage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326452-drought-strains-water-supply-in-hua-hin-conservation-measures-introduced/

Hua Hin Municipality is grappling with severe water scarcity due to ongoing drought conditions. The dry spell has considerably depleted water resources for both municipal and agricultural usage. In efforts to combat the crisis, the Royal Rainmaking Operations Center has expedited cloud-seeding operations aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and replenishing reservoirs in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon provinces. Nevertheless, the Pranburi Reservoir, Hua Hin's main water source, remains extremely low with little new inflow, as reported by the Royal Irrigation Department’s Region 14. The water shortage compounded with the current hot weather and tourism season has increased water demand, leading to insufficient water pressure in several areas, particularly elevated and remote regions. In response, the Hua Hin Municipal Waterworks Department has structured water pressure management and reserves for public usage. Water delivery trucks have been dispatched to serve the population but delays have arisen due to the overwhelming demand. Small households lacking large storage capacities are affected most. To encourage water conservation, the municipality has advised residents to consciously limit water usage, invest in water-saving devices, install sizable water tanks, dig wells or ponds in certain areas, utilize water-efficient toilets, and capture water in containers. Mayor Nopporn Wuttikul has initiated free water truck services for residents in Takiab, Hua Don, Hua Thanon, and neighboring areas experiencing water shortages. These trucks are accessible from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Hua Hin Police Station’s citizen service unit and continue until there’s an improvement in the situation. The municipality continues to collaborate with government, private, and public sector entities to manage the crisis effectively. Picture for reference only. Courtesy of Vecteezy -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi Airport Service to Roll Out Electric Buses Picture courtesy of Hua Hin Today Facebook Rung Reuang Coach Company Limited is set to introduce new electric buses for its routes between Hua Hin and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326448-hua-hin-suvarnabhumi-airport-service-to-roll-out-electric-buses/

Rung Reuang Coach Company Limited is set to introduce new electric buses for its routes between Hua Hin and Suvarnabhumi Airport. In an environmentally-friendly move, the firm will transition to electric buses later this year to minimize emissions and align with global sustainability trends. The 36-seater air-conditioned buses have been constructed by the Cherdchai Corporation Co.,Ltd, a Thai vehicle assembly company. Not only are these buses eco-friendly, they are also upgraded with revamped toilet facilities, comfortable seating, improved lighting and enhanced speaker systems. Details regarding the official rollout of new buses are forthcoming. The bus service between Hua Hin and Suvarnabhumi Airport provides affordable ticket prices, as low as 325 THB per seat, while operating several times daily. An additional route from Hua Hin to Pattaya is also available at 425 THB per ride. These service routes provide a cost-effective and comfortable travel option for commuters and tourists alike. Picture courtesy of Hua Hin Today Facebook -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 3 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326441-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-3-may-2024/

Authorities arrested a seventh person in connection with a wildlife smuggling operation in Prachinburi. The suspect was found at home in possession of nearly 200 protected species. Six other suspects were apprehended on Wednesday with 48 lemurs and over 1,000 star tortoises. It's suspected they were part of a smuggling network responsible for transporting protected wildlife from Indonesia. The House Committee on Industry plans to file a petition for an amendment to the law to include jail terms for operators of factories that illegally dump industrial or chemical waste, Currently, they are only fined for failing to adhere to regulations when handling waste. A 59 year old French businesswoman has left 100 million bahts worth of assets to her Thai house maid. Catherine Delacote who lived on her own on Kho Samui, left a villa, a two-rai plot of land, a car, cash and other items, Police say her death on Monday was the result of suicide, a gunshot to the head. Before her death, She had told her maid she had been suffering from cancer. Around the region, In Nepal… Firefighters and local residents battled a massive wildfire on the outskirts of the capital yesterday, More than 4,500 wildfires have been reported this year, almost double compared to last year. The increase in the number of wildfires this year follows a lengthy drought and heatwave conditions across the country. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 39C Bangkok: Sunny, 38C Pattaya: Sunny, partly cloudy 34C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, partly cloudy, 35C AQIYellow to Orange, moderate to high Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-05-03 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Kiwi Arrested for Illegal Use of Fireworks on Thai Beach Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express A 39-year-old New Zealander, named only as Mr. Stephen, has been arrested for illegally setting off fireworks on Thailand's Patong Beach. The arrest occurred on Thursday, May 2nd, after midnight local time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326440-kiwi-arrested-for-illegal-use-of-fireworks-on-thai-beach/

A 39-year-old New Zealander, named only as Mr. Stephen, has been arrested for illegally setting off fireworks on Thailand's Patong Beach. The arrest occurred on Thursday, May 2nd, after midnight local time. Mr. Stephen was apprehended by the Patong Police near Taweewong Road. Two sets of eight fireworks were found in his possession. He was subsequently taken to Patong Police Station, where he was charged with using fireworks without the necessary legal permit and causing noise pollution. As reported by the Phuket Express, the offense carries stiff penalties in Thailand. Violators can potentially serve up to three years in jail and may be subject to fines of up to 60,000 baht or both. Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

MRTA Launches Free Trial of Smart Parking System Picture courtesy of MRTA The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is enabling patrons to test its new smart parking system for free in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326439-mrta-launches-free-trial-of-smart-parking-system/

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is enabling patrons to test its new smart parking system for free in Bangkok. The trial began on May 1 at The Orange Line’s 10-story Park’n’Ride unit on Ramkhamhaeng Road and a parking area at the MRTA station on Rama IX Road. The free parking offer is valid 24/7 and permits users to park for up to 48 hours. However, charges apply for those parked beyond this period. During the trial, the parking building can accommodate 190 cars and 150 motorcycles on the first two floors, while the parking space can hold 200 cars, according to MRTA Deputy Governor Vithaya Punmongkol. The smart parking system allows users to find parking spots and pay fees using the MRTA Parking mobile app. Additional features include washrooms, a parking guidance system, CCTV cameras, security personnel, and future plans for electric vehicle chargers, taxi parking slots, and vending machines. This initiative aligns with MRTA’s commitment to the Ministry of Transport’s campaign to use the electric train service to reduce PM2.5 dust pollution. On a related note, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is set to replace its current fleet with 3,390 electric buses, as part of its sustainable commitment, revealed Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. Picture courtesy of MRTA -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former Health Minister Cholnan Denies Ministry's Internal Conflicts Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand Dr. Cholnan Srikaew, the recently replaced health minister, has dismissed rumours surrounding his dismissal from the role in the last cabinet reshuffle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326438-former-health-minister-cholnan-denies-ministrys-internal-conflicts/

Dr. Cholnan Srikaew, the recently replaced health minister, has dismissed rumours surrounding his dismissal from the role in the last Thailand cabinet reshuffle. The former leader of the Pheu Thai party in the Srettha Thavisin government, who was replaced by former Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, has stated that he didn't lose his position due to failure in controlling senior ministry officials, as conveyed by some media outlets. The Rural Doctor Foundation, which published on social media that Cholnan was ousted due to a conflict with the National Health Security Office (NHSO) - incited by deceptive high-ranking ministry officials - has been dismissed by the Minister as false and divisive. Cholnan stated in a Facebook post that he discussed such allegations with Dr. Supat Hasuwannakit of the foundation, who admitted that his statement was based on personal opinions rather than verified facts. Dr. Supat later apologized, clarifying that the intention was to offer moral support to Cholnan. Cholnan acknowledged the long-standing tensions between the foundation and the ministry officials. He clarified his efforts to resolve the issues since their inception, and affirmed his effective collaboration with the secretary-general of the NHSO, to meet national health system demands. Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chulalongkorn Tops Thai Universities, Ranks 117th in Asia Picture courtesy of Wikipedia Chulalongkorn University has clinched top rankings in Thailand and 117th among 739 Asian institutions in the Asia University Rankings 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326437-chulalongkorn-tops-thai-universities-ranks-117th-in-asia/

Chulalongkorn University has clinched top rankings in Thailand and 117th among 739 Asian institutions in the Asia University Rankings 2024. This is a significant leap from its previous ranking, improving 102 spots since last year when 669 universities were included. The latest list, released on Wednesday, features 19 universities from Thailand. The ranking process uses five key measures of excellence: teaching (24.5%), research environment (28%), research quality (30%), industry (10%), and international outlook (7.5%). Chulalongkorn University's high ranking reflects its superior performance in these areas. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Saudi Arabian Arrested for DUI in Phuket File photo for reference only A Saudi Arabian man, identified as Mr. Hamet, was apprehended in Patong on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) on May 2nd. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326436-saudi-arabian-arrested-for-dui-in-phuket/

A Saudi Arabian man, identified as Mr. Hamet, was apprehended in Patong on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) on May 2nd. Patong Police announced they had established a checkpoint close to the Coconut Intersection on Ratch Uthit 200 Pi Road between 1:45 A.M. and 3:45 A.M. Mr. Hamet, 29, drew their attention, and in testing, was found to have exceeded the legal alcohol limit in his breath test. The test indicated a 0.112 milligrams percent of alcohol, an amount that surpasses the lawful cap of 0.50. Subsequently, the police escorted him to Patong Police Station to address the drunk driving accusation. Mr. Hamet has yet to release a statement to the media regarding this incident. TOP: File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heatwave and Climate Change Puts Pressure on Thailand File photo Thailand has been hammered by searing heatwaves this year, leading to dire consequences such as infrastructure failures and a rise in fatalities. These weather events have offered a stark glimpse into the potential impacts of climate change on the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326432-heatwave-and-climate-change-puts-pressure-on-thailand/

Thailand has been hammered by searing heatwaves this year, leading to dire consequences such as infrastructure failures and a rise in fatalities. These weather events have offered a stark glimpse into the potential impacts of climate change on the country. The end of the Thai summer has been marked by extreme heat, causing numerous incidents, including a motorbike catching fire in Chiang Rai and railway tracks in Nakhon Si Thammarat at risk of warping from the intense heat. Heatstroke has led to an uptick in deaths, and water shortages are beginning to affect tourism areas. These climate-related problems present additional concerns for the already struggling Thai economy. Recently, a TikTok video depicting a motorbike spontaneously combusting in the heat gained attention, highlighting the breadth of issues stemming from the extreme temperatures. Other repercussions include water shortages affecting hoteliers and rail infrastructure damage. Residents and tourists eagerly await the end of the heatwave, hoping that predicted thunderstorms between May 10th to 14th will bring relief. This follows an exceptionally warm summer, with April recorded as one of the hottest months Thailand has ever experienced. During the past few days, temperatures in many parts of the country have soared, often exceeding 40°C. Top: File photo -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Four Frenchmen Lost at Sea Found Safe on Thai Island Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News Four French nationals reported missing after a fishing trip in Thailand have been found safe. The men embarked from Jomtien Beach, heading for Koh Maravichai on May 1st, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326431-four-frenchmen-lost-at-sea-found-safe-on-thai-island/

Four French nationals reported missing after a fishing trip in Thailand have been found safe. The men embarked from Jomtien Beach, heading for Koh Maravichai on May 1st, 2024. Their empty vessel was later discovered near Koh Si Chang, triggering a search operation. The missing men, identified as Adrien Simon (38), Mehdi Benchoula (47), Vincent Ferrer (30), and Stefan Stauat (32), were found unharmed on Koh Maravichai the next day. Various local agencies, including Pattaya Tourist Police and Pattaya Marine Rescue Volunteers, were involved in the rescue operation. The four men were subsequently transported to a nearby beach in Sattahip in good health. Mr. Simon explained the group went diving and fishing off Koh Maravichai, leaving their anchored boat unattended. In their absence, the boat came loose from its anchor and drifted away. Unable to locate the boat upon resurfacing, the men spent a night on the island until rescue services arrived. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Motorbike Accident Claims Life, Sparks Safety Concerns Picture for reference only. Courtesy of pexels.com via The Thaiger A fatal motorbike accident occurred in Phuket earlier today, raising concerns about road safety in the region. The incident happened when a Honda Wave motorbike crashed into a concrete table at the roadside, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old passenger, Wanna Songsri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326430-phuket-motorbike-accident-claims-life-sparks-safety-concerns/

Picture for reference only. Courtesy of pexels.com via The Thaiger A fatal motorbike accident occurred in Phuket earlier today, raising concerns about road safety in the region. The incident happened when a Honda Wave motorbike crashed into a concrete table at the roadside, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old passenger, Wanna Songsri. The bike was driven by 44-year-old Nikorn Srirod who hails from Trang and reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. She was injured and rushed to Thalang Hospital. The accident happened in front of Mueang Mai City Pillar Shrine on Thepkrasattri Road at around 3.30 am. Authorities were alerted by Thalang police. This incident adds to the alarming statistics from the ThaiRSC, the national road safety agency which reported 60 fatalities and over 9,240 injuries in Phuket since the start of the year. Meanwhile, Phuket is also dealing with an escalating drug problem. The Phuket Provincial Narcotics Prevention and Suppression Centre committee reports a 6.21% increase in drug issues between October last year and March this year. The narcotics issue resulted in 1,335 arrests in 78 drug-related cases. In fact, there was a dramatic 50.89% increase in drug-related arrests from February to March, with most cases involving amphetamines and crystal methamphetamine known as ya ice. -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian National Held for Visa Overstay at Phuket Airport File photo A 40-year-old Russian man was recently arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by 59 days. The arrest happened on Thursday (May 2nd) at the international departures terminal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326429-russian-national-held-for-visa-overstay-at-phuket-airport/

Phuket Immigration Office, who revealed the incident to the media, detained the man before taking him to Sakoo Police Station, where he faced charges relating to his overstay. The precise details of these charges are currently unknown. Neither the man's name nor any statement from him was released by the Phuket Immigration Office or the individual himself. Top: File photo -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

French Duo Arrested for Attempting to Break Police Motorbike Chain Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express Two French nationals were taken into custody in Patong on May 2nd, after attempting to break a police motorbike chain locked in a no-parking zone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326427-french-duo-arrested-for-attempting-to-break-police-motorbike-chain/